The second iteration of 2v8 is now LIVE - find out more information here: https://forums.bhvr.com/dead-by-daylight/kb/articles/480-2v8-developer-update

2v8 Mode enhancement idea

Core Idea:

Every match starts with five active Hex Totems scattered across the map. These Hex Totems apply map-wide penalties to survivors until cleansed. Each totem has a distinct penalty effect, inspired by the Pentimento and Undying perks, to enhance killer presence and survivor challenge.

Hex Totem Effects:

Entity’s Insight (Totem 1):

Replaces the Undying functionality:- When this totem is active, killers gain aura reading of survivors within 4 meters of any dull or hex totem.- If this totem is cleansed, it does not transfer effects to other totems (no perk-specific mechanics like Undying).

Slowed Repair (Totem 2):

Survivors’ generator repair speed is reduced by 30% while this totem is active. Cleansing this totem removes the penalty.

Slowed Healing (Totem 3):

Survivors’ healing speed is reduced by 30% while this totem is active. Cleansing this totem removes the penalty.

Slowed Recovery (Totem 4):

Survivors’ recovery speed from the dying state is reduced by 30% while this totem is active. Cleansing this totem removes the penalty.

Slowed Gate Opening (Totem 5):

Survivors’ exit gate opening speed is reduced by 30% while this totem is active. Cleansing this totem removes the penalty.

How It Works in 2v8 Mode:

- **Default Mechanic:** The five Hex Totems are automatically active at the start of the match and are part of the baseline game mechanics for killers in 2v8 mode.- **Survivor Risk and Reward:** Cleansing a Hex Totem removes its specific penalty but requires significant time investment (e.g., 16 seconds per cleanse). If survivors ignore totems, the penalties remain active throughout the match, increasing their overall difficulty.

Killer Benefits:

- **Strategic Map Pressure:** Totems provide natural patrol zones, giving killers areas to control without needing perk-based setups.- **Balanced Synergy:** With no perk system in 2v8, these Hex Totems give killers meaningful built-in mechanics to create pressure, slow survivors, and add depth to the trial.

Survivor Challenge:

1. Survivors must weigh the time spent cleansing totems versus completing other objectives.2. Survivors gain no direct buffs or bonuses from cleansing totems (beyond removing the penalties), ensuring the challenge remains focused on resource management and teamwork.

Balance Considerations:

- Totem placement is randomized but evenly distributed across the map to avoid unfair stacking in a single area.- Survivors retain agency by deciding how to allocate time between totems and other goals.- Killers benefit from passive pressure without perk reliance, ensuring they remain impactful throughout the match.

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